Definition - What does Flexor Muscles mean?
Flexor muscles are a group of muscles that serve the biomechanical function of contracting to draw the articulating joint (connecting bones) and its corresponding limb toward the body, closing the spatial distance, or angle, opposite the extended position. Different joints allow free movement based on a finite range of motion (ROM) compatible with surrounding soft muscle tissue and bony surfaces near the juncture that influence mobility.
SureHire explains Flexor Muscles
Many joints exist on the human body including the ankles, digits (i.e., fingers, toes), elbows, knees, hips, neck, shoulders, and wrists where flexor muscles generate motions by bending or curving while coinciding extensor muscles remain lax. Examples of flexor muscles include the brachialis, biceps brachii, pectoralis major (upper limb flexors) and the psoas major and iliacus muscle, also collectively referred to as the iliopsoas (lower limb flexors). Flexor muscles can act as leverage in performing daily activities that consist of bending, climbing, lifting, and squatting, promoting structural integrity of the bones through repeated movements. However, musculoskeletal injuries can ensue when overexerting certain muscle groups whether it relates to strenuous exercise or jobs requiring manual labor.
In the workplace, environmental conditions can have detrimental consequences for employees that must meet cumbersome job demands. For instance, slippery surfaces or unstable platforms are hazards that can contribute to hip flexor muscle strains, a common occurrence for many employers. Following health and safety guidelines coupled with adopting a routine of stretching and strengthening flexor muscles to improve joint flexibility, minimizes the risk of a serious injury.
If an individual sustains a muscle flexion injury, physical therapists or exercise specialists will measure the range of motion of the affected extremity for comparative analysis against baseline metrics. Rehabilitation therapy incorporates a series of exercises designed to repair soft tissue damage around the joint, in time, supporting the range of motion.
